Tag: Park

Europe

Discover Madeira: The Latest Highlight of Our Discovery Portugal Tour

Gate 1 Travel on June 14, 2026

Portugal continues to captivate travelers with its rich history, coastal beauty, and vibrant culture. And now, there’s even more to explore by visiting Madeira. With this addition to our Portugal Discovery Small Groups itinerary, this journey reaches new heights. From the lively streets of Lisbon to Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, this tour offers a perfect blend of iconic sights and immersive new experiences designed to inspire every traveler.

Madeira on the Tour: Portugal’s Island Paradise

After spending time in Ponta Delgada, Gate 1’s 12 Day Azores & Madeira Islands with Lisbon tour will have travelers transfer to Madeira. Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring”, Madeira is famous for its dramatic cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant botanical gardens. Travelers will start in the capital city of Madira, Funchal. On arrival, take a panoramic tour of the city, and spend free time in the old town for lunch on your own. Afterward, ride a cable car that gently glides above the city as it ascends toward Monte. From the top, marvel at the magnificent panoramic views over Funchal and the ocean. Visit the enchanting Monte Palace Gardens, featuring an impressive variety of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world. The gardens are adorned with serene ponds, cascading waterfalls, and charming pathways that lead you through the picturesque setting.

The next day, travelers will continue to explore the delightful city of Funchal. Begin with a visit to Santa Catarina Park, offering stunning views of the city and the ocean. Continue to the city center and visit the 15th century Funchal Cathedral, a blend of Gothic and Moorish architectural styles. Then, tour the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmer’s Market), known for its fresh produce, exotic flowers, and local crafts. Proceed to the elevated Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, providing awe-inspiring panoramas of Madeira’s natural wonders. Next, head to Eira do Serrado, a remarkable viewpoint that showcases the island’s rugged terrain and lush valleys. Later, visit Curral das Freiras, one of the most emblematic villages of the island, nestled deep within a crater. Return to the hotel with free time. Tonight, dinner is at a traditional restaurant with entertainment.

Explore Lisbon & Terceira Island

Before making your way to Madeira on Gate 1’s tour, arrive in captivating Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Travelers will start with a morning tour of Lisbon with a stop at the top of Edward VII’s Park for panoramic views over the hills of Lisbon and the River Tagus. Next, view the treasured 16th century Belém Tower and the Monument of Discoveries, standing at the marina in Belém, the starting point for many of Portugal’s explorers. Then, spend the afternoon at leisure.

Next, depart Lisbon and head to the airport for your flight to the volcanic island of Terceira. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Afterward, take a city tour of Angra do Heroismo. Begin in the city center, at the main square known as Praca Velha. This historic square is lined with colorful buildings and features a beautiful central fountain. Learn about the city’s history and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the Cathedral of Angra do Heroismo, an impressive structure that dominates the skyline. This 16th century cathedral is a masterpiece of religious architecture and boasts an intricate interior filled with religious artifacts. Return to the hotel with time to relax before dinner.

The next day begins in Monte Brasil, at Pico das Cruzinhas, an overlook that offers expansive views of the island. Head to Serra do Cume, known for its patchwork of green pastures and home to the largest crater in the Azores. Continue to Sao Sebastiao, home to the oldest church on the island, and take a stroll through its narrow streets. During lunch at a local restaurant, taste alcatra, a regional dish of roasted beef. In the afternoon, proceed to Biscoitos and visit the natural swimming pools formed by black volcanic rock along the rugged coastline. Next, visit a winery and learn about the unique volcanic soil that shapes the character of the wines. Sample local varieties before driving back to the hotel, passing by the villages of Doze Ribeiras and Sao Mateus.

Travel Deeper with Gate 1’s Discovery Program

Gate 1’s Discovery program is designed to take you beyond the typical tourist experience, offering meaningful connections and authentic cultural insights throughout your journey. Each exclusive, active tour reveals the world to you in a whole new way…up close, intimate, and real. It’s all thanks to our small group size, which allows you to truly immerse yourself in the cultural and natural beauty that makes your destination so singular. Simply put, you’ll delve more deeply into local culture than ever before. On the 12 Day Azores & Madeira Islands with Lisbon tour, travelers will experience local interactions in Libson to immersive experiences in Madeira. The Discovery program ensures your Portugal adventure is as enriching as us it is unforgettable.

A Deeper Way to Experience Portugal

Gate 1’s Discovery 12 Day Azores & Madeira Islands with Lisbon tour offers a perfect balance of iconic highlights and meaningful discovery. With the added depth of Gate 1 Travel’s Discovery program, each moment goes beyond sightseeing, inviting you to connect with local culture, traditions, and people in a more authentic way. This thoughtfully designed journey not only showcases the beauty of Portugal but also creates lasting memories through experiences that truly bring each destination to life. Click here to view the rest of Gate 1’s Portugal and Spain Discovery tours. And click here if interested in viewing our entire Discovery Small Group tour itinerary.

Europe

9-Day Canary Islands Tour: Explore Nature and Culture

Gate 1 Travel on June 12, 2026

The Canary Islands are a destination where lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming villages come together to create an unforgettable adventure. This 9-day journey invites travelers to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of these Spanish islands, from scenic walking tours and national parks to historic towns and local wine tastings. Whether you’re drawn to breathtaking vistas or authentic island traditions, this itinerary offers the perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Discover Puerto de la Cruz on Foot

Gate 1 Travel’s 9 Day Canary Islands Discovery tour will have travelers first arrive in Puerto de la Cruz, located on Tenerife’s north coast. The city is known for its dark, volcanic-sand beaches and the huge Loro Parque zoo. The next morning, travelers will begin their day with a walking tour of the city, discovering its historic Old Town, traditional Canarian architecture, and vibrant squares. Old town is centered around the historic fishing port and leafy Plaza del Charco. Continue strolling along the seafront promenade where you’ll visit local shops and artisan stalls and admire views of the Atlantic Ocean. Later that afternoon, explore the town of La Orotava, famous for its well-preserved colonial buildings and wooden balconies. During the tour, view the iconic 17th century Casa de los Balcones and the Baroque Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Conception. Last, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Explore the Wonders of Teide National Park

Take a visit to Teide National Park, showcasing one of the Canary Islands’ most spectacular views. Marvel at the park’s volcanic landscapes, where lava fields, jagged rock formations, and high-altitude deserts create a surreal, almost lunar terrain. Travelers will learn about the geology and flora of the area, including rare endemic plants that thrive in this extreme environment. After finishing lunch at a restaurant within the park, ascend by cable car to the summit of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. From this vantage point, enjoy breathtaking vistas across Tenerife, the Atlantic Ocean, and neighboring islands on clear days. Once travelers have returned to their hotel, they’ll get to witness a folk show featuring colorful costumes, lively music, and traditional dances that celebrate the island’s heritage.

Experience San Cristóbal de la Laguna and Anaga Park

Continue your journey with a visit to the historic city of San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1496, La Laguna is the oldest city in the Canary Islands and was built as a non-fortified town, establishing the original grid plan that became the model for colonial cities across the Americas. Wander through its bustling squares, admire ornate churches, and discover its cultural legacy. Then, head to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anaga Rural Park. The park has numerous deep ravines and verdant laurel forests. The reserve was formed by volcanic activity from up to 9 million years ago, it is a geological and ecological treasure. Continue off a beaten path to hidden viewpoints over the ocean and surrounding mountains. Finally, fuel up by having lunch in the village of Taganana and sample authentic Canarian dishes.

Visit Garachico, Masca, and Icod with a Taste of Local Wine

Not only will travelers enjoy local meals on Gate 1 Travel’s 9 Day Canary Islands Discovery tour, but they’ll also get to savor a taste of the region’s renowned white and red wines, sampling the flavors that make Tenerife’s vineyards so special. Before tasting the wine, stop at Garachico, a coastal town shaped by volcanic eruptions. Then wander the town’s cobblestone streets and admire the natural lava pools along the shore. Next, journey to the remote village of Masca, perched in a ravine, offering stunning views of cliffs, terraces, and lush valleys that highlight the island’s rugged beauty. Conclude the tour in Icod de los Vinos, home to the oldest and largest Dragon Tree, where travelers will finally get to taste the delicious wines.

Ferry to Gran Canaria and Discover its Beauty

Eventually, travelers will depart from Puerto de la Cruz aboard a ferry to Gran Canaria, an island often called a miniature continent for its diverse landscapes, unique microclimates, and rich ecosystems within a small area. Upon arrival, take a walking tour of the town of Agaette, where whitewashed houses cling to the valley slopes and hidden gems await, including elegant 19th century homes with interior patios, the Immaculate Concepción Church, and the walled Huerto de las Flores garden. Next, travel to your hotel in Las Palmas, the capital of the Island, and check in.

The next morning, discover Gran Canaria on a tour through its most scenic and historic sites. Begin with a drive to Bandama Peak, a volcanic crater, featuring panoramic views of the island’s valleys and coastline. Then, continue to the mountain town of San Mateo, where you’ll have free time to walk through its quaint streets. The journey then takes you into the island’s interior to admire the striking rock formations of Roque Nublo, and Roque Bentayga, two volcanic monoliths that dominate the landscape. Conclude the day in the Marian village of Teror, renowned for its colorful wooden balconies. Travelers will finish their tour by having local specialties for dinner and bidding farewell to their Tour Manager.

A Journey Through the Canary Islands’ Natural Wonders

This 9-day adventure through the Canary Islands is more than a vacation, it’s an opportunity to experience some Spain’s most extraordinary landscapes and charming destinations. From volcanic parks, ancient forests, and coastal villages, every stop reveals another layer of the island’s unique character. For travelers seeking a journey filled with nature, culture, and beautiful scenery, the Canary Islands deliver an experience that will be remembered for years.

Europe Gate 1 Connections

Tastes of England & Southern Ireland: What to Expect in 16 Days

Gate 1 Travel on May 12, 2026

A journey through England and Ireland offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes. On this 16-day adventure, travelers will visit historic landmarks, charming cities, and scenic country sides while indulging in local drinks. From Oxford to Dublin, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience that captures the true essence of the United Kingdom.

Touring Iconic UK Locations

On Gate 1’s 16 Day Tastes of England & Southern Ireland tour, travelers will start their seven days stay in Oxford. Oxford is the home of the world-renowned University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world. The university has been established since the 10^th century. On the first day in the city, taking a walking tour. Visit Christ Church College, used in many of the Harry Potter movies. Next, enjoy a leisurely punting tour on the River Cherwell, gliding past Oxford’s lush college gardens and iconic spires for a unique view of the city. Perhaps, choose the optional Sudeley Castle. Tour the 15th century Sudeley Castle, home to royal art collections and award-winning gardens. Learn about the 1,000 years of English history this Cotswold estate has witnessed, from visits by King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, to World War II, when the castle was used to store the Tate Modern’s art collection during the Blitz. Explore the elegant rooms and historic grounds while gaining insight into the castle’s royal connections, including its association with Catherine Parr, who is buried in the castle’s church.

On the fifth day of the tour, travelers will head to Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though not confirmed, experts presume Stonehenge was a religious site. It was built in six stages between 3000 and 1520 BCE, during the transition from the Neolithic Period (New Stone Age) to the Bronze age. Afterward, drive to the city of Bath, founded by the Romans as a thermal spa. View the Georgian architecture of the imposing 18th century terraced houses of the Royal Crescent, Poultney Bridge, and the preserved 2,000-year-old Roman Baths.

City Tour of Dublin

On Gate 1’s 16 Day Tastes of England & Southern Ireland tour, travelers will visit numerous cities. Start in Oxford as mentioned, then make your way to Dublin. Travelers will head to the Heathrow Airport for their flight to Dublin, nestled on the banks of the Liffey River. The next morning, take a tour of the city. Begin with a panoramic drive, viewing Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in any capital city in Europe. Then make your way to St. Stephen’s Green, a historic park in the heart of Dublin’s city center. Last, see Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest and highest ranked university (founded in 1592). Also visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland dedicated to the county’s patron saint.

Savor the Drinks of the Region

No journey to the United Kingdom would be complete without having their iconic beverages. On Gate 1’s 16 Day Tastes of England & Southern Ireland tour, travelers will visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. It’s located in the historic St. Jame’s Gate Brewery. Learn all about the brewing process, view the multimedia exhibits about Guinness, and enjoy the panoramic city views with a pint at the Gravity Bar.

In Dingle, travelers will also take a guided tour of the Dingle Distillery. The Dingle Distillery is known as one of the first modern craft whiskey distilleries in Ireland, it produces its own single malt whiskey, single post still whiskey, gin, and vodka. Witness the traditional distillation process, from careful selection of ingredients to handcrafted techniques. Conclude the visit with a tasting session of your choice!

Enjoy the Gorgeous Scenery

Travelers will begin their first full day in Dingle with a scenic drive along the Slea Head, a 30-mile loop that takes you around the rugged Dingle Peninsula. The view offers vistas of the Blasket Islands and the Skelling Islands.

The next day, join the optional Gap of Dunloe with Jaunting Cars and Boat Ride. Embark on a tour of the Gap of Dunloe, a scenic mountain pass nestled in the heart of County Kerry. Begin your adventure with a jaunting car ride, then hop in a traditional horse-drawn carriage that takes you through the valley, surrounded by towering mountains, crystal clear lakes, and lush greenery. Take in the natural beauty as your guide shares stories about the area’s history and folklore. On arrival at Ross Castle, continue your journey with a boat ride across the lakes of Killarney before returning to Dingle.

The day after, enjoy a magnificent vista as you drive through Killarney National Park and the world-famous Ring of Kerry, circling the island’s southwestern tip. View the sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, the remote villages of Cahirciveen and Sneem, winding lanes bordered by subtropical vegetation, and the breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Travelers who want to experience iconic historic sites and landmarks
Those who enjoy exploring local towns and cities
Travelers who appreciate a country’s culture with a local or pub experience
Nature lovers who enjoy the countryside or coastal views

Conclusion

The United Kingdom has so much to see and experience. From iconic landmarks like Stonehenge, the charming city of Dublin, the delicious drinks, and the beautiful views, it has something for everyone. Click these to view Gate 1’s England and Ireland tours and click here for Gate 1’s western Europe full itinerary. What do you want to see first in the United Kingdom? Share this post and let us know!

Asia & Pacific Gate 1 Connections

Best 10-Day New Zealand Tour: What to See & Do

Gate 1 Travel on April 22, 2026

Experience the best of New Zealand on this unforgettable 10-day journey, designed to showcase the country’s most iconic landscapes and cultural highlights. From the vibrant city of Auckland to the breathtaking natural beauty of Queenstown and Milford Sound, this guided tour offers a seamless way to explore New Zealand’s North and South Islands with ease.

Touring Auckland: New Zealand’s Vibrant Gateway

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with a population of over 1.7 million, located in the North Island. Also known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland is built on over 50 dormant volcanoes and features a narrow isthmus setting between harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau. It is New Zealand’s economic hub, while also having easy access to coastal beaches and island vineyards.

On Gate 1’s 10 Day Tastes of New Zealand tour, travelers will first arrive in Auckland. That afternoon, take a walking tour of the city. See the iconic Sky Tower and walk down Queen Street, Auckland’s bustling main thoroughfare. Admire the Edwardian architecture of the historic Ferry Building and the abundance of restaurants, bars, and shopping at Viaduct Harbour on the waterfront.

Discover Waiheke Island

The next day of the tour, travelers will explore the delightful Waiheke Island with a scenic cruise through the Hauraki Gulf. This island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, has over 20 top-tier vineyards, and a mild microclimate. It is New Zealand’s second largest island in the Gulf and is most populated with over 9,000 residents. Travelers will visit one of the vineyards and learn about wine production, followed by a wine tasting. Also, enjoy a relaxing ferry back to Auckland.

Explore Queenstown: The Adventure Capital

On the sixth day of Gate 1’s 10 Day Tastes of New Zealand tour, travelers will head to the airport for their flight to Queenstown in the South Island. Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown was originally founded in the 1860s due to the popular gold rush at the time. It’s now famous for bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing. The town sees over 3 million visitors annually.

Once arrived, travelers will take a walking tour of the city, beginning at your hotel through Queenstown Gardens and then down to Queenstown Bay Beach with views of Walter Peak. The resort town boasts great shopping, art galleries, New Zealand design stores, and Steamer Wharf. View the Skyline Gondola and stroll through the town’s many charming streets. Then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. The next day is for travelers to spend at their leisure where they can explore the sophisticated downtown area, with its trendy shops and restaurants, or be adventurous and ascend on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak, high above the city for magnificent views of Queenstown, The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Lake Wakatipu.

Cruise Through Milford Sound

After spending some time in Queenstown, travelers will enjoy a day of exploration with a tour of Milford Sound. Get ready for a breathtaking drive through some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. The long drive takes you along winding roads and through lush World Heritage Fiordland National Park, rich with dense rainforest, lakes, and waterfalls cascading from rugged mountain peaks. En route to Milford Sound, stop at Te Anau and the glacier hewn Eglinton Valley before embarking on the cruise out into the fjord with views of temperate rainforest, iconic Mitre Peak, and Bowen Falls. Possible wildlife viewings include seals, native birds, and occasionally even dolphins or penguins.

Enhance Your Journey with Optional Tours

Make your trip even more memorable with optional tours designed to deepen your connection to New Zealand. Consider participating in the Walter Peak Farm tour, where travelers will embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak High-Country Farm. Admire the beautiful scenery and views of the remarkable mountain range. Upon arrival, take a walking tour of the farm and learn about New Zealand’s farming lifestyle. Watch sheepdogs in action as they demonstrate their remarkable skills rounding up sheep. Later, visit the holding pens, where you can feed the sheep and even get up-close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Afterward, head to the old woolshed for afternoon tea.

Or try the Otago Winery Tour, where you’ll travel to the wine region, Gibbston, known as Valley of the Vines. Explore New Zealand’s largest wine cave, located in Central Otago, and gain insight into the region’s winemaking heritage. Carved deep into ancient schist rock, this impressive cave maintains a cool, stable environment perfect for aging wines. After sampling a selection of fine wines, head further into Central Otago to sample a range of organic estate-grown wines during a tutored tasting experience. Next, head to Kawarau Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise river, and historic gold mining sites. It is home to the iconic Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, where thrill-seekers can leap from a 141-foot platform over the river below, that runs through the heart of this historic gold mining and wine region.

A Perfect Introduction to New Zealand

From the charm of Auckland to the breathtaking landscapes of Queenstown and Milford Sound, this 10-day journey offers a unique balance of culture, scenery, and relaxation. With guided experiences, seamless travel, and opportunities to customize your trip, it’s an ideal way to discover the very best of New Zealand. To view Gate 1’s entire South Pacific itinerary, click here. If New Zealand is on your travel list, what’s the first place you’d explore? Share this post and tell us your dream stop!

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Tag: Park

Discover Madeira: The Latest Highlight of Our Discovery Portugal Tour

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9-Day Canary Islands Tour: Explore Nature and Culture

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Tastes of England & Southern Ireland: What to Expect in 16 Days

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Best 10-Day New Zealand Tour: What to See & Do

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